It's been over three decades since the launch of the original PlayStation, and the evolution of games and technology has been remarkable. Yet, the lasting impact of the PS1 on the gaming industry and pop culture remains undeniable. From the iconic jorts-wearing Crash Bandicoot to the witty Spyro, the PS1 introduced some of the most memorable video game characters and franchises. Which PS1 games stand out as the best of the best?
After careful consideration, we've compiled our list of the top 25 PS1 games, including some exclusive titles. Here are the 25 best PS1 games of all time.
The Best PS1 Games Ever
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PaRappa the Rapper
Before the likes of Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Dance Dance Revolution, PaRappa the Rapper burst onto the scene. This unique rhythm game featuring a flat, cartoon dog and his animal friends won hearts with its catchy tunes and quirky charm. PaRappa stood out amidst the "extreme" and "hardcore" games of the PS1 era, and its distinctiveness continued with the sequel, Um Jammer Lammy. Its charm and influence earned PaRappa a spot among the top 10 dogs in video games.
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee
Image credit: Oddworld InhabitantsDeveloper: Oddworld Inhabitants | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: September 18, 1997 | Review: IGN's Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee review
Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee is an unusual blend of action, puzzle, and platforming elements set against a bizarre Soylent Green-inspired narrative. The game's quirky character design and intricate lore have inspired several sequels and spinoffs, including Munch's Oddysee and Stranger's Wrath. Abe's unique abilities to communicate with Mudokons, possess enemies, and manipulate them into combat make this game a standout experience.
Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped
While Crash Bandicoot 2 might rank higher in some lists, the entire Crash trilogy played a pivotal role in the PlayStation's legacy. Naughty Dog crafted three incredibly fun and challenging games, with Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped offering diverse platforming levels and exciting vehicle challenges. The time-hopping theme adds variety to the levels, enemies, and settings, making Warped a robust and cohesive entry. The 2019 remastered Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy revitalized the game, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Spider-Man
Developed by Neversoft, the creators of the Tony Hawk series, PS1's Spider-Man set the standard for future superhero games. It was the first to truly capture Spider-Man's unique traversal methods, including swinging between buildings, wall-crawling, and acrobatic combat. Filled with Easter eggs, Marvel cameos, and unlockable costumes like Spider-Man 2099 and Captain Universe, the game even featured commentary by Stan Lee, making it a beloved classic.
Mega Man Legends 2
Mega Man Legends 2 shifted the series' focus towards story and character, delivering a unique and charming 3D action/adventure experience. The sequel built upon the first game's formula, enhancing its narrative depth and gameplay mechanics, making it a standout title in the franchise.
Ape Escape
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Sony Computer Entertainment | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: June 18, 1999 | Review: IGN's Ape Escape review
Ape Escape introduced players to the innovative use of the DualShock controller's analog sticks through a humorous premise of capturing mischievous primates. The game's gadgets, like hula hoops and remote-controlled cars, required unique control methods that felt revolutionary at the time. Its influence extended beyond gaming, as evidenced by a real-life chimpanzee escape in 2016, showcasing the game's lasting impact.
Crash Team Racing
Crash Team Racing came remarkably close to challenging Mario Kart's dominance. With original tracks, weapons drawn from Crash lore, and a skill-based drifting/boost system, CTR remains a beloved entry in the kart racing genre. Its 2019 remake, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled, further cemented its legacy.
Syphon Filter
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Eidetic Games | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1999 | Review: IGN's Syphon Filter review
Drawing inspiration from games like Metal Gear Solid and GoldenEye, Syphon Filter combined stealth and action elements into a compelling espionage adventure. With a variety of weapons and flexible mission approaches, the game's memorable features, such as tasering enemies, made it a standout title that spawned multiple sequels.
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain
Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain offered a gothic and macabre continuation of the series, shifting to a 3D environment reminiscent of Ocarina of Time. Its innovative gameplay, involving shifts between the living and spectral realms, influenced future titles. Amy Hennig's narrative added depth, making it a standout sequel despite a rushed ending.
Final Fantasy Tactics
Developer: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 28, 1998 (NA) | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy Tactics review
Final Fantasy Tactics redefined turn-based strategy games on consoles with its complex plot and engaging gameplay. Its enduring appeal lies in its unique blend of cute yet detailed characters and a deep narrative, even without the need for flashy 3D graphics.
Medal of Honor: Underground
Image credit: EADeveloper: DreamWorks Interactive | Publisher: Electronic Arts | Release date: 24 October, 2000 | Review: IGN's Medal of Honor: Underground review
Medal of Honor: Underground brought WWII action to the PS1 with memorable characters and thrilling levels. The game's behind-enemy-lines atmosphere and unique features, such as tricking Nazis into posing for photos, made it one of the best shooters of its era.
Final Fantasy 9
Image credit: Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Square Electronic Arts | Release date: July 7, 2000 | Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 9 review
Final Fantasy 9 returned the series to its fantasy roots, featuring beloved characters like Zidane, Vivi, and Steiner. Its narrative paid homage to earlier entries while setting the stage for future games, making it a poignant conclusion to the single-digit series.
See our guide to the Final Fantasy games in order.
Silent Hill
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Team Silent | Publisher: Konami | Release date: February 23, 1999 | Review: IGN's Silent Hill review
Silent Hill ventured into psychological horror, presenting a foreboding atmosphere filled with unsettling creatures and a narrative that challenged players' perceptions. Its enduring impact is felt through its audio and psychological elements, which continue to resonate with players.
Spyro 2: Ripto’s Rage
Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage expanded on the original game's foundation, offering a balance of challenge and fun within a richly realized world. Its seasonal hub areas and memorable mini-worlds, combined with engaging collectibles and characters, made it a standout in the Insomniac trilogy.
Driver
Image credit: GT InteractiveDeveloper: Reflections Interactive | Publisher: GT Interactive | Release date: June 25, 1999 | Review: IGN's Driver review
Driver blended open-world mission design with arcade driving action, offering a thrilling car chase experience. Its detailed collision modeling and innovative Director Mode allowed players to create their own action sequences, securing its place in the PS1 hall of fame.
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back
Image credit: SonyDeveloper: Naughty Dog | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: November 5, 1997 | Review: IGN's Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back review
Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back balanced the original's platforming with new techniques and secrets. Its challenging yet achievable levels remain some of the franchise's best, cementing its place in gamers' hearts.
Vagrant Story
Vagrant Story is an underrated gem, combining action RPG elements with a complex plot and innovative gameplay systems. Its challenging bosses and unique battle mechanics make it a standout experience on the PS1.
Tekken 3
Developer: Namco | Publisher: Namco | Release date: Mar 1, 1997 | Review: IGN's Tekken 3 review
Tekken 3 remains one of the most respected fighting games, introducing a third axis to the action and attracting a broad audience. Its eclectic characters and wacky cinematics helped define the PS1 fighting game genre, with lasting influence seen in games like Tekken 8.
Resident Evil 2
Despite a stunning 2018 remake, the original Resident Evil 2 remains a horror classic. Its eerie police station setting, intricate puzzles, and relentless Tyrant pursuit create an unforgettable experience, enhanced by dual perspectives.
Tomb Raider
Developer: Core Design | Publisher: Eidos Interactive | Release date: November 14, 1996 | Review: IGN's Tomb Raider review
The original Tomb Raider introduced Lara Croft as a gaming icon, blending solo adventure with intricate level design and awe-inspiring environments. Its impact on the gaming world is undeniable, making it a timeless classic.
See our guide to the Tomb Raider games in order.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 is not only a seminal entry in its series but also one of the highest-rated sports games ever. Its addictive gameplay, iconic soundtrack, and skate park editor made it a cultural phenomenon.
Gran Turismo 2
Gran Turismo 2 expanded on the original's success, offering nearly 650 cars and an unprecedented amount of content. Its impact on console racing sims is unmatched, making it a cornerstone of the PS1 library.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Image credit: KonamiDeveloper: Konami | Publisher: Konami | Release date: March 20, 1997 | Review: IGN's Castlevania: Symphony of the Night review
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night's 2D gameplay and pixel art have aged beautifully, offering a refined experience that remains influential. Its soundtrack and gameplay continue to be celebrated, making it a near-perfect game.
Final Fantasy 7
Image credit: Sony/Square EnixDeveloper: Square | Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment | Release date: January 31, 1997| Review: IGN's Final Fantasy 7 review
Final Fantasy 7 transformed the JRPG genre, introducing a dark sci-fi narrative and iconic character designs to a global audience. Its impact on the gaming world is profound, spawning numerous spin-offs and a highly acclaimed remake.
Metal Gear Solid
Metal Gear Solid revolutionized stealth/action gaming with its unique gameplay, bizarre yet engaging characters, and boundary-pushing narrative. Its enduring legacy within the Metal Gear series and gaming at large is undeniable.
Honorable Mentions
Selecting the top PlayStation games was challenging, given the diverse tastes of fans. Here are some honorable mentions that also deserve recognition:
Einhander
Dino Crisis
Brian Lara/Shane Warne Cricket ‘99
Need For Speed: High Stakes
The Legend of Dragoon
These are our picks for the best games on the original PlayStation. We understand that rankings vary, so feel free to use the Tier List below to share your thoughts on which games are S-tier and which should be forgotten. Did any PS1 classics make your list that weren't on ours? Let us know in the comments.
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
The 25 Best PS1 Games of All Time
Top 25 Best PlayStation Games
The original PlayStation was released in North America on September 9, 1995, and has sold 102 million units since. Here's an interactive Playlist of our 2020 PS1 ranking. Which ones have you played? See All!
1Metal Gear SolidKonami
2Final Fantasy VIISquare
3Castlevania: Symphony of the NightKCET
4Gran Turismo 2Polyphony Digital
5Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2LTI Gray Matter
6Tomb Raider -- Featuring Lara CroftCORE Design Limited
7Resident Evil 2 [1998]Capcom
8Tekken 3Namco
9Vagrant StorySquare
10Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes BackNaughty Dog
